Hello my fellow bibliomaniacs!
I have been buried in many things lately, and yet I have found the time to pour through an old series I discovered back in middle school. Way back before the immense fandom that came with The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins had developed a very unique world in The Underland Chronicles, starting with her first ever novel, Gregor the Overlander. Now, like her later series, this one delves into dark subject matter at times, some of which I thought might be too advanced for the intended age group, but perhaps that is why the series appeals to me so much now after 8 years or so. The reader gets something new out of it every time they read it. So what makes this series so endearing? Well, ladies and gentlemen, let's find out . . .
I have been buried in many things lately, and yet I have found the time to pour through an old series I discovered back in middle school. Way back before the immense fandom that came with The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins had developed a very unique world in The Underland Chronicles, starting with her first ever novel, Gregor the Overlander. Now, like her later series, this one delves into dark subject matter at times, some of which I thought might be too advanced for the intended age group, but perhaps that is why the series appeals to me so much now after 8 years or so. The reader gets something new out of it every time they read it. So what makes this series so endearing? Well, ladies and gentlemen, let's find out . . .
And let's see what's behind Door #1 . . .
First off, let's take a look at the cast of characters. Not only do we have Gregor, an 11 year old boy who is completely relatable to both young and old alike, but we have GIANT. TALKING. ANIMALS. I don't know about you guys, but when I was younger, I was fascinated with the concept of larger-than-life animals that could speak like human beings. Even though many of these creatures are dangerous in the series, at times I couldn't help but picture them as being similar to the giant stuffed teddy bears that are given away as carnival prizes. Always wanted to win one of those . . . Anyway, one of the details that I appreciated was that each type of creature spoke it's own dialect of English. They could all be understood, but it seemed as if each had different grammatical rules, which as a word nerd, (yes, I rhymed, don't judge me), I found to be a nice detail.
Imagine being able to have a philosophical discussion with this little guy?
And my cute little mouse friend up above leads me to my second reason why this series is worth looking into. Many serious topics are broached in a way that is familiar to the reader, but prompts some deep thought. Issues of morality, death, racism, and other such subjects make appearances many, many times, and at times seem to consume the plot. But one aspect that I found to be especially interesting was this: I thought more about the issues in an unbiased way, and hence came up with a more truthful perspective on how I felt about each issue. Why is that? I believe, (and some of you may disagree with me), that because so many of the characters are non-human entities, I was able to look at the issues being presented with a more critical eye, because when dealing with human beings, we tend to make excuses or reasons up for each other, instead of being blunt and honest about what is right or wrong. I often surprised myself while reading these books, and I think many other readers would feel the same.
Sometimes there is a balance between black and white . . .
Tying in with the ideas that are presented throughout all five books, I personally love how flawed and uncertain the main character is. Excluding his young age from the picture, he perfectly captures how so many people are not sure of their place or role in the world. While deemed the "Warrior" by the people of the Underland, there is not really a moment where Gregor feels completely secure in this role. He struggles with the responsibility and obligation that comes with the title, but, perhaps most importantly to me, he constantly makes mistakes. Normally, we are taught to think that warriors and heroes always know exactly what they need to do. But this supposed flaw is what makes Gregor so likable. He acts just as the majority of us would, were we to be put in the same position, (well, I don't know if I would even be able to handle it as well as he does. There would be a lot more tears on my part . . .). I personally loved characters that have negative traits or choices associated with them. They feel more real.
A lesson I wish all characters, (and people), would learn
Overall, I am surprised such an original and powerful series came out of an author's first novel. Generally, we as readers don't see that right away. But it does such a wonderful job of both entertaining and provoking thought, which can be an addictive combination, (I devoured the series in the span of a couple weeks). That being the case, I urge you all to at least give the first book a try. I was lucky enough to get the first two books signed by the author, and got to hear her speak about the series, so also look up some interviews when you get the chance. It's pretty interesting.
With that, my fellow avid readers, I must bid you a goodnight. Hopefully soon, I will be working on a special author-prompted review that I'm eager to share with you all. Sweet dreams, and happy reading!!
With that, my fellow avid readers, I must bid you a goodnight. Hopefully soon, I will be working on a special author-prompted review that I'm eager to share with you all. Sweet dreams, and happy reading!!